The Power of the Web:

The web has made the world a much smaller place. Distance communication is now quicker, cheaper, and more efficient. We are living in an information age, and since information is power, users of the web have become empowered. We now do not need to rely travel agents to book airline tickets or hotel rooms. It is now (usually) extremely easy for an internet user to find bargains themselves without having to pay a middle man. The web is also a great source way to get like minded consumers’ opinions about products and services. A sales person is usually biased due to his/her vested interest in selling a certain product. Sites such as Consumer Reports and even chat rooms are great sources for viewing and posting objective views. The power of the web has allowed people to quickly and conveniently stay in touch with family and friends via email, skype, etc. at a minimal cost. It is also changing the very nature of education (or information dissemination), business and social interactions. Since there is an aspect of anonymity, more people feel comfortable with virtually socializing with others. This of course can be viewed as a positive or a negative. However, there is no question that the web is powerful, and some people choose to abuse that power. Unfortunately, hackers, virus program writers, cyber bullies, and internet predators can cause havoc including huge financial losses, mental anguish, and despair. Since web 2.0 is now more interactive than the passive web 1.0 we can hopefully collaborate in a manner that limits the abuse of the web. We need embrace and build upon all of the positive aspects of this amazing tool is continuing to become more powerful at an incredible rate.